Mistakes That Job Hunters Are Making

If you are looking for a job and can't figure out why it's so difficult, it might be because you are making mistakes that you don't even realize you are making.

Looking for a job is hard enough, so the last thing you need is to not get a job because of something simple that you should have done but didn't. For example, do you send a thank you note after an interview?

CareerBuilder.com has come up with some other mistakes that job hunters typically make.

1. 54 percent of job seekers don't customize their resume for each employer.
Employers can easily and quickly spot an all-purpose resume. Tailor your resume to match the job description by inserting keywords used in the job posting that match your experience. Not only will this catch the eye of the hiring manager, but also it can move your resume to the top of the pile if an automated tracking system is scanning resumes for potential candidates.

2. 84 percent of job seekers don't find out the hiring manager's name and personalize the application.
Applying directly to the hiring manager increases your chances of getting noticed and shows you've gone that extra step and invested time in getting to know the company.

3. 45 percent of job seekers don't include a cover letter with their resume.
Cover letters allow candidates the opportunity to sell themselves beyond the typical listing of work experience and skills in a resume. Use a cover letter to introduce yourself and showcase your credentials in a relatable way.

4. 37 percent of job seekers don't follow up with an employer after they have applied.
Recruiters can sometimes be overwhelmed by candidate applications for certain open jobs. Circling back with a recruiter or hiring manager after submitting a cover letter and resume can help job seekers stand out among the competition.

5. 57 percent of job seekers don't send thank-you notes after an interview.
Writing a thank-you note is not only the polite thing to do, but also allows you to reiterate why you're the best fit for the job. Most recruiters and hiring managers expect a thank-you note in some form or another (email or handwritten), so neglecting this action will make you stick out--and not in a good way. Thank-you notes should be sent after phone screening calls, as well.